Accessible Trail: Yes (asphalt path, compacted gravel)
Mileage: 2.25 mile loop
In the eastern most region of the Bay Area, where life is defined more by the San Joaquin/Sacramento River Delta than San Francisco Bay, rolling hills stretch uninterrupted for miles. In the summertime, the hills can home to some of the hottest temperatures in the region. Within those hills, Contra Loma Regional Park is a welcome oasis for those seeking refuge from the heat.
Springtime in Contra Loma is perfect. Temperatures are mild, the hills are bright green with new growth, and migratory birds find temporary shelter within the calm waters. Activities within the park are centered around the reservoir; boating, fishing, and lakeside picnics are very popular here. For those who are so inclined, the park even contains a swimming lagoon.
A great place to begin your tour of this beautiful body of water is near the swimming lagoon. From the accessible parking area, head toward the water and you'll soon find the paved trail. Follow the paved trail to the right, winding through picnic areas and mirroring the shoreline. After a short while, you will find an accessible pier. If you've brought your tackle box, you'll have a chance to land rainbow trout, catfish or two species of bass. If not, continue along the paved pathway.
A bridge will appear on your left, leading to an island picnic area. This is a great place to grab a bite and capture great views of the lake. For now, though, continue along the paved pathway.
As you near the park entrance, for a quick detour take the pathway to the left, toward the boat launch area. Be sure to watch for ducks as you enjoy the views of the water. Return on the paved pathway, heading toward the entrance kiosk, cross the park road and continue on the compacted gravel road.
The gravel road leads away from the shore for a bit; take your second available left to return to the East Shore Trail's compacted gravel pathway. The trail once again hugs the shoreline. Be sure to keep your eyes and ears open. The songs of the near-shore marshland birds provide a great soundtrack for your trip around the reservoir.
As you continue heading toward the northern edge of the water, look for the pathway leading to the left. You will find yourself traveling along the top of the dam that forms the boundary of the reservoir. Head across the dam, admiring the view of the blue water and green hills.
Continue to hug the shoreline, curving your way along the West Shore Trail. You're likely to find more people fishing from the shoreline here - keep an eye out for anglers casting their lines.
The shoreline trail will soon bring you back toward the swimming lagoon where you began your journey. The park offers a beach wheelchair, designed for traveling around the swimming lagoon, free of charge and available on a first-come, first-served basis. Feeling the cool water of the lagoon is a great way to end your trip around the reservoir.
Comentarios